Across North America, people are falling in love with autumn. Travelers hit the road in search of fall foliage that ignites into fiery shades of orange and red as the air turns crisp. From seeking out city strolls under blazing canopies to escaping to mountains framed by golden peaks, leaf peepers are drawn to destinations that promise a welcome dose of color.
Looking for a front-row seat to the seasonal splendor? Check out these dynamic destinations that offer gorgeous views of nature’s magic.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago in autumn is simply electric. The city’s Lakefront Trail offers miles of shoreline framed by flamboyant foliage, while Lincoln Park’s winding paths and the Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool provide serene escapes within the city. Fall is also the perfect time to delight in seasonal festivals, lake breezes, and cozy cafés that are sure to please.
Where to Stay: Waldorf Astoria Chicago, nestled in the stylish Gold Coast neighborhood, makes for a luxurious home base. Explore fall’s natural beauty, then retreat to world-class dining, spa indulgence, and elegant accommodations that wrap up the perfect autumn day.
Portland, Oregon
In Portland, outdoor adventures await in any season. But fall is when the area’s lush canopies truly shine. For the best views, wander through Forest Park, marvel at rare species in the Hoyt Arboretum, and take in sweeping vistas at Pittock Mansion. Then, take a short drive to the Columbia River Gorge and the cascading Multnomah Falls, where the surrounding maples and oaks put on a seasonal show.
Where to Stay: Nestled in the heart of the city, Embassy Suites by Hilton Portland Downtown offers historic charm, spacious suites, and the perfect spot to unwind just steps away from Portland’s vibrant dining and cultural scene.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
The always spectacular Great Smoky Mountains National Park draws millions each year to soak up its unrivaled autumn beauty. Here, misty peaks draped in technicolor foliage create a breathtaking backdrop for hikes, scenic drives, and cozy mountain town charm. A stopover in the fall truly showcases why this is America’s most visited national park.
(R) Hampton Inn Gatlinburg Historic Nature Trail - Outdoor Firepit
Where to Stay: With panoramic views of the Smokies, Embassy Suites by Hilton Gatlinburg Resort makes the perfect escape. The hotel’s all-suite accommodations and connection to the neighboring Hampton Inn Gatlinburg Historic Nature Trail provide plenty of comfort and convenience.
New York, New York
When it comes time to relish some nature in New York City, locals and visitors alike head to the iconic Central Park. And come fall, its sprawling lawns and winding paths are alight with a dazzling array of yellows, oranges, and reds. Foliage aficionados can take it all in before pairing their park stroll with a cultural stop at MoMA or a show at Radio City, located just steps away.
Where to Stay: Situated just a few blocks from Central Park, New York Hilton Midtown offers a home base in the center of it all. From pet-friendly rooms to Manhattan’s largest fitness center, it’s the perfect stay for experiencing everything this sparkling season has to offer.
Park City, Utah
Few places capture fall’s grandeur like the Wasatch Mountains, where golden aspens shimmer against a backdrop of rugged peaks. Scenic drives, refreshing alpine air, and endless trails make Park City a leaf peeper’s dream before winter’s snow transforms the slopes into an entirely different sort of scenic wonderland.
Where to Stay: At the base of Park City Mountain Resort, the plush Waldorf Astoria Park City offers luxurious suites with panoramic views of autumn’s spectacle. Between mountain hikes, indulge in the hotel's expansive spa, signature restaurant, and outdoor firepits that make chilly evenings unforgettable.
Québec City, Canada
In charming Québec City, autumn is postcard perfect. The already picturesque cobblestone streets of Old Québec are framed by vibrant foliage, while the historic Plains of Abraham offer sweeping views of the city awash in brilliant hues. For adventurers, nearby trails and Instagram-worthy waterfalls add to the area’s seasonal allure.
Where to Stay: At Hilton Québec, every room provides travelers with window-front panoramas of the surrounding beauty. Just steps from Old Québec, the hotel makes it easy to explore storied streets and embark on outdoor adventures, creating a memorable foliage-forward getaway.
Harrisonburg, Virginia
In Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, people flock to the breathtaking Skyline Drive. This 105-mile journey delivers one of the country’s most revered foliage experiences, with winding mountain roads leading to jaw-dropping overlooks of the area’s spectacular scenery. Leave time to stop for hikes through Shenandoah National Park and enjoy endless opportunities to bask in the colors.
Where to Stay: Home2 Suites by Hilton Harrisonburg University provides all the comforts of home. The hotel’s spacious rooms, relaxed vibes, and smart amenities make it the perfect place to rest tired legs after days filled with wonder.
Cleveland, Ohio
Another awe-inspiring national park can be found just outside of Cleveland. Here, in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, rolling hills, waterfalls, and forested trails explode in autumn colors. Take a stunning train ride through the park to bask in its beauty before heading back into the city to savor crisp lakefront walks and fall concerts in the buzzing downtown district.
Where to Stay: Hilton Cleveland Downtown offers floor-to-ceiling views of Lake Erie or the skyline, making it easy to admire the season from indoors or out. Don’t miss Bar 32, the hotel’s rooftop bar, where craft cocktails pair perfectly with sweeping sunsets.
Savannah, Georgia
In Savannah, autumn colors arrive a bit later in the season. But good things come to those who wait as tree-lined squares draped in luminous leaves make strolling the historic district even more enchanting. Gentle breezes lure travelers to the riverfront at sunset for an extra dose of pigment, and water-view restaurants make for the best spot to lap up this timeless beauty.
Where to Stay: Take it all in from Homewood Suites by Hilton Savannah Historic District/Riverfront, which overlooks the Savannah River. Here, rooftop views and spacious suites await, giving guests an idyllic base for basking in Savannah’s Southern charm.
